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Burton AE, Owen AL, Taylor J, Dean SE, Cartlidge E, Wright E, Gallagher N. Evaluation of environmental features that support breastfeeding: A photovoice study. Appetite 2024; 199:107397. [PMID: 38735307 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
The United Kingdom (UK) has some of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world, and Stoke-on-Trent has some of the lowest breastfeeding rates and highest infant mortality rates in the UK. Vicarious experience of formula feeding, formula feeding culture, and a lack of physical environments to support breastfeeding are known barriers to uptake and maintenance. Improving physical environments and increasing the visibility of breastfeeding in public would help to challenge these barriers. This research employs a participatory approach to understand the facilitators and barriers to breastfeeding in public. Nine breastfeeding peer supporters were recruited as co-researcher for a photovoice study. Co-researchers collated images of features in environments which they felt either supported or acted as a barrier to public breastfeeding. An analysis workshop was held to review the data collected and produce collaboratively agreed findings. Various environmental features were highlighted as facilitators to breastfeeding including family rooms, welcoming signage, supportive staff members, and displays of information about breastfeeding. In addition, poorly designed family rooms, lack of inclusivity within breastfeeding spaces, breastfeeding spaces within toilets and a lack of information were barriers to public breastfeeding. This research illustrates that while some environments are well designed to support breastfeeding many others are not. Environments often lack basic provision and/or make token gestures towards breastfeeding support, such as welcome signage, without providing the infrastructure needed to support breastfeeding. More education about breastfeeding friendly spaces and resources for putting this information into practice are needed for environment owners, managers, and policy makers.
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Grant A, Pell B, Copeland L, Brown A, Ellis R, Morris D, Williams D, Phillips R. Views and experience of breastfeeding in public: A qualitative systematic review. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2022; 18:e13407. [PMID: 35914544 PMCID: PMC9480936 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Breastfeeding rates in many Global North countries are low. Qualitative research highlights that breastfeeding in public is a particular challenge, despite mothers often having the legal right to do so. To identify barriers and facilitators, we systematically searched the qualitative research from Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries relating to breastfeeding in public spaces from 2007 to 2021. Data were analysed using the Thematic Synthesis technique. The review was registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42017081504). Database searching identified 3570 unique records. In total, 74 papers, theses, or book chapters, relating to 71 studies, were included, accounting for over 17,000 mothers. Overall, data quality was high. Our analysis identified that five core factors influenced mothers' thought processes and their breastfeeding in public behaviour: legal system; structural (in)equality; knowledge; beliefs and the social environment. Macro-level factors relating to legislation and inequality urgently require redress if breastfeeding rates are to be increased. Widespread culture change is also required to enhance knowledge, change hostile beliefs and thus the social environment in which mother/infant dyads exist. In particular, the sexualisation of breasts, disgust narratives and lack of exposure among observers to baby-led infant feeding patterns resulted in beliefs which created a stigmatising environment. In this context, many mothers felt unable to breastfeed in public; those who breastfed outside the home were usually highly self-aware, attempting to reduce their exposure to conflict. Evidence-based theoretically informed interventions to remove barriers to breastfeeding in public are urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee Grant
- Centre for Trials ResearchCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
- Centre for Lactation, Infant Feeding and Translational ResearchSwansea UniversitySwanseaUK
| | - Bethan Pell
- Centre for Trials ResearchCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
- DECIPHerCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Lauren Copeland
- DECIPHerCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
- Division of Population MedicineCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Amy Brown
- Centre for Lactation, Infant Feeding and Translational ResearchSwansea UniversitySwanseaUK
| | - Rebecca Ellis
- Centre for Lactation, Infant Feeding and Translational ResearchSwansea UniversitySwanseaUK
| | - Delyth Morris
- Subject Librarian, Dental and MedicineCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | | | - Rhiannon Phillips
- Division of Population MedicineCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health SciencesCardiff Metropolitan UniversityCardiffUK
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3
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Blythe S, Elcombe E, Peters K, Burns E, Gribble K. Australian foster carers' views of supporting maternal breastfeeding and attachment in out-of-home care. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 130:105360. [PMID: 34688491 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breastfeeding supports infant health, growth and development, and promotes maternal attachment and sensitive caregiving. Maternal separation due to child protection concerns can result in termination of breastfeeding with associated adverse outcomes. How to preserve breastfeeding when infants are placed in out-of-home care is an issue of concern. OBJECTIVE To consider the views of foster carers towards provision of breastmilk and breastfeeding for infants in their care. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Foster carers (including kinship carers), in Australia, who had cared for at least one infant in the years 2013-2018 completed an online survey. METHODS Foster carer's views were collected via an online survey and subjected to content analysis. RESULTS Respondents (n = 184) expressed mixed views about; mothers breastfeeding during contact visits, increased frequency of contact visits for breastfeeding; and the provision of expressed breastmilk to infants in their care. Concerns were raised about the safety of breastmilk from mothers abusing substances and the value of breastfeeding if reunification was not possible. Because of these concerns, some carers discarded expressed breastmilk and resisted frequent contact. Conversely, breastfeeding was also viewed positively as a way for mothers to maintain attachment with their infants, where reunification of the mother-infant dyad was the goal. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights foster carers' view of breastfeeding as a facilitator of attachment between mothers and their infants. While fosters carers were largely supportive of breastfeeding as a way to improve infant health and facilitate mother-infant attachment, they held concerns regarding the safety of breastmilk supplied to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Blythe
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Australia; Translational Research and Social Innovation Group, Ingham Institute, Australia.
| | - Emma Elcombe
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Australia; Translational Research and Social Innovation Group, Ingham Institute, Australia
| | - Kath Peters
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Australia
| | - Elaine Burns
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Australia
| | - Karleen Gribble
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Australia
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Whipps MDM, Yoshikawa H, Demirci JR, Hill J. "Painful, yet Beautiful, Moments": Pathways Through Infant Feeding and Dynamic Conceptions of Breastfeeding Success. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:31-47. [PMID: 34558371 DOI: 10.1177/10497323211032158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
What is breastfeeding "success"? In this article, we challenge the traditional biomedical definition, instead centering visions of success described by breastfeeding mothers themselves. Using semi-structured interviews, quantitative surveys, and written narratives of 38 first-time mothers in the United States, we describe five common pathways through the first-year postpartum, a taxonomic distinction far more complex than a success-failure dichotomy: sustained breastfeeding, exclusive pumping, combination feeding, rapid weaning, and grinding back to exclusivity. We also explore the myriad ways in which mothers define and experience breastfeeding success, and in the process uncover the ways that cultural narratives-especially intensive mothering-color those experiences. Finally, we discuss how these experiences are shaped by infant feeding pathway. In doing so, we discover nuance that has gone unexplored in the breastfeeding literature. These findings have implications for supporting, promoting, and protecting breastfeeding in the United States and other high-income countries.
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5
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Beggs B, Koshy L, Neiterman E. Women's Perceptions and Experiences of Breastfeeding: a scoping review of the literature. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2169. [PMID: 34836514 PMCID: PMC8626903 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12216-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite public health efforts to promote breastfeeding, global rates of breastfeeding continue to trail behind the goals identified by the World Health Organization. While the literature exploring breastfeeding beliefs and practices is growing, it offers various and sometimes conflicting explanations regarding women's attitudes towards and experiences of breastfeeding. This research explores existing empirical literature regarding women's perceptions about and experiences with breastfeeding. The overall goal of this research is to identify what barriers mothers face when attempting to breastfeed and what supports they need to guide their breastfeeding choices. METHODS This paper uses a scoping review methodology developed by Arksey and O'Malley. PubMed, CINAHL, Sociological Abstracts, and PsychInfo databases were searched utilizing a predetermined string of keywords. After removing duplicates, papers published in 2010-2020 in English were screened for eligibility. A literature extraction tool and thematic analysis were used to code and analyze the data. RESULTS In total, 59 papers were included in the review. Thematic analysis showed that mothers tend to assume that breastfeeding will be easy and find it difficult to cope with breastfeeding challenges. A lack of partner support and social networks, as well as advice from health care professionals, play critical roles in women's decision to breastfeed. CONCLUSION While breastfeeding mothers are generally aware of the benefits of breastfeeding, they experience barriers at individual, interpersonal, and organizational levels. It is important to acknowledge that breastfeeding is associated with challenges and provide adequate supports for mothers so that their experiences can be improved, and breastfeeding rates can reach those identified by the World Health Organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Beggs
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada.
| | - Liza Koshy
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Elena Neiterman
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
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Burton AE, Taylor J, Owen AL, Renshaw JE, Williams LR, Dean SE. A photo-elicitation exploration of UK mothers' experiences of extended breastfeeding. Appetite 2021; 169:105814. [PMID: 34818562 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
In this qualitative study we explored the experiences of women breastfeeding children over 12 months of age. Data were collected from 24 participants using semi-structured photo-elicitation interviews and photo-prompted online surveys. Participants took photographs of their extended breastfeeding experiences over one week and reflected on how the events depicted made them feel, and what they represented in terms of their experience. Data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Four themes were developed; parenting through breastfeeding: meeting the needs of my child, my body is not my own, social influences on the breastfeeding experience, and thinking about stopping: my choice or theirs? Findings highlight that extended breastfeeding was experienced as beneficial for both mother and child, promoting closeness, and bonding, and providing a valued parenting tool. However, some mothers reported conflict between their desire for child-led extended breastfeeding and the need to regain autonomy and control of their own bodies. The dangers of negative societal responses to extended breastfeeding and risks to mental health posed by cultural constructions of 'ideal' motherhood are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Burton
- Staffordshire Centre for Psychological Research & Centre for Health Psychology, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, UK.
| | - J Taylor
- Staffordshire Centre for Psychological Research & Centre for Health Psychology, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, UK
| | - A L Owen
- Staffordshire Centre for Psychological Research & Centre for Health Psychology, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, UK
| | - J E Renshaw
- Staffordshire Centre for Psychological Research, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, UK
| | - L R Williams
- Staffordshire Centre for Psychological Research, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, UK
| | - S E Dean
- Staffordshire Centre for Psychological Research & Centre for Health Psychology, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, UK
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Jackson JE, Hallam JL. 'It's quite a taboo subject': an investigation of mother's experiences of breastfeeding beyond infancy and the challenges they face. Women Health 2021; 61:572-580. [PMID: 34112061 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2021.1938790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Current recommendations state that women should breastfeed their child up to 2 years and beyond. However, the UK has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world. This could in part be explained by the stigma mothers face when breastfeeding an older child. This research aims to provide a detailed understanding of what motivates women to continue breastfeeding beyond infancy and the barriers they face to (i) add to existing research literature which has examined this area and (ii) support and normalize this practice. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between April and June 2018 with 24 women who had breastfed at least one child past 12 months. A theory-driven thematic analysis identified themes that ran through the interviews centering on the benefits of continued breastfeeding, the stigma mothers faced when breastfeeding past infancy and the challenges of returning to work. The women felt that continued breastfeeding enabled them to play a central role in their child's health and develop an attachment led parental style but faced social and cultural stigma due to a lack of public awareness of current breastfeeding recommendations. Interventions which raise awareness of breastfeeding beyond infancy are needed to normalize this practice in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Eve Jackson
- Research Nurse and SCPHN Health Visitor, Health and Social Care Research Centre, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Jenny Louise Hallam
- Psychology, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, School of Psychology, University of Derby, Derby, UK
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Russell PS, Smith DM, Birtel MD, Hart KH, Golding SE. The role of emotions and injunctive norms in breastfeeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Psychol Rev 2021; 16:257-279. [PMID: 33618626 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2021.1893783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Breastfeeding has many known benefits, but rates vary globally. We propose two main reasons why psychological theory and interventions have not been successful to date in explaining breastfeeding behaviours. Specifically, prior research underestimates the importance of (1) specific emotions and (2) wider injunctive influences (i.e., societal and moral norms about what women feel they ought to be doing) in the breastfeeding experience. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies that explored whether injunctive norms and/ or specific emotions are associated with breastfeeding behaviours (i.e., intentions, initiation and duration). Seventy-two papers were included in this review; data were extracted and quality appraisals conducted for all included studies. A meta-analysis of effect sizes was performed with the quantitative data. A convergent qualitative synthesis of the data was conducted, resulting in the following line of argument: Breastfeeding is a social behaviour and not a personal/individual behaviour. From this line of argument, three themes with associated sub-themes were developed, highlighting the importance of both specific emotions and injunctive norms on breastfeeding behaviours. These influences are discussed in relation to both theoretical and practical implications, as well as future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Sophie Russell
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Debbie M Smith
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Kathryn H Hart
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Sarah E Golding
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
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9
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Motivações para o prolongamento da amamentação. ACTA PAUL ENFERM 2020. [DOI: 10.37689/acta-ape/2020ao0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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10
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Thompson AJ, Topping AE, Jones LL. 'Surely you're not still breastfeeding': a qualitative exploration of women's experiences of breastfeeding beyond infancy in the UK. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035199. [PMID: 32461295 PMCID: PMC7259861 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore women's experiences of breastfeeding beyond infancy (>1 year). Understanding these experiences, including the motivators, enablers and barriers faced, may help inform future strategies to support and facilitate mothers to breastfeed for an optimal duration. DESIGN An exploratory qualitative study using an interpretive approach. Nineteen semistructured interviews were conducted (in person, via phone or Skype), transcribed and thematically analysed using the framework method. SETTING Participants drawn from across the UK through online breastfeeding support groups. PARTICIPANTS Maximum variation sample of women currently breastfeeding a child older than 1 year, or who had done so in the previous 5 years. Participants were included if over 18, able to speak English at conversational level and resident in the UK. RESULTS The findings offer insights into the challenges faced by women breastfeeding older children, including perceived social and cultural barriers. Three core themes were interpreted: (1) parenting philosophy; (2) breastfeeding beliefs; (3) transition from babyhood to toddlerhood. Women had not intended to breastfeed beyond infancy prior to delivery, but developed a 'child-led' approach to parenting and internalised strong beliefs that breastfeeding is the biological norm. Women perceived a negative shift in approval for continued breastfeeding as their child transitioned from 'baby' to 'toddler'. This compelled woman to conceal breastfeeding and fostered a reluctance to seek advice from healthcare professionals. Mothers reported feeling pressured to breastfeed when their babies were young, but discouraged as children grew. They identified best with the term 'natural-term breastfeeding'. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that providing antenatal education regarding biological weaning ages and promotion of guidelines for optimum breastfeeding duration may encourage more women to breastfeed for longer. Promoting the concept of natural-term breastfeeding to mothers, and healthcare professionals, employers and the public is necessary to normalise and encourage acceptance of breastfeeding beyond infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Thompson
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Annie E Topping
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Laura L Jones
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Hauck YL, Kuliukas L, Gallagher L, Brady V, Dykes C, Rubertsson C. Helpful and challenging aspects of breastfeeding in public for women living in Australia, Ireland and Sweden: a cross-sectional study. Int Breastfeed J 2020; 15:38. [PMID: 32398087 PMCID: PMC7218587 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-020-00281-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Breastfeeding in public continues to be contentious with qualitative evidence confirming that women face many challenges. It is therefore important to gain understanding of not only the challenges but also what women perceive is helpful to breastfeed in public. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with women living in Australia, Ireland or Sweden currently breastfeeding or having breastfed within the previous 2 years. Our objective was to explore and compare what women do when faced with having to breastfeed in the presence of someone they are uncomfortable with and what women think is helpful and challenging when considering whether to breastfeed in public. Data were collected in 2018 from an online survey over a 4 week period in each country. Content analysis revealed data similarity and theme names and definitions were negotiated until consensus was reached. How often each theme was cited was counted to report frequencies. Helpful and challenging aspects were also ranked by women to allow international comparison. Results Ten themes emerged around women facing someone they were uncomfortable to breastfeed in the presence of with the most frequently cited being: ‘made the effort to be discreet’; ‘moved to a private location’; ‘turned away’ and ‘just got on with breastfeeding’. Nine themes captured challenges to breastfeed in public with the following ranked in the top five across countries: ‘unwanted attention’; ‘no comfortable place to sit’; ‘environment not suitable’; ‘awkward audience’ and ‘not wearing appropriate clothing’. Nine themes revealed what was helpful to breastfeed in public with the top five: ‘supportive network’; ‘quiet private suitable environment’; ‘comfortable seating’; ‘understanding and acceptance of others’ and ‘seeing other mothers’ breastfeed’. Conclusions When breastfeeding in public women are challenged by shared concerns around unwanted attention, coping with an awkward audience and unsuitable environments. Women want to feel comfortable when breastfeeding in a public space. How women respond to situations where they are uncomfortable is counterproductive to what they share would be helpful, namely seeing other mothers breastfeed. Themes reveal issues beyond the control of the individual and highlight how the support required by breastfeeding women is a public health responsibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne L Hauck
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery Education and Research, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lesley Kuliukas
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Louise Gallagher
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, D02 T283, Ireland
| | - Vivienne Brady
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, D02 T283, Ireland
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12
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Women's experiences with breastfeeding in public: An integrative review. Women Birth 2020; 34:e217-e227. [PMID: 32402811 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2020.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Much evidence around public breastfeeding does not reflect experiences of the key stakeholder, the breastfeeding woman, and focuses upon the audience. Selective evidence has explored breastfeeding experiences revealing challenges with public breastfeeding as a serendipitous finding. Although women's experiences have been explored in specific contexts, insight into commonalities reflective of an international perspective is unknown. OBJECTIVE to explore, review and synthesise published literature on women's experience with public breastfeeding. METHODS An integrative review allows inclusion of findings beyond empirical evidence. Whittemore and Knafl's approach was used to capture and analyse evidence from varied sources to provide understanding of a phenomenon from diverse methodologies. PubMed, Medline, Ovid emBase, Scopus, Science Direct, the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature and PsychINFO were searched. Inclusion criteria included publications in English after 2005 offering descriptions of women's experiences. Data evaluation included assessment of literature quality. A constant comparison approach involved comparing, analysing and drawing similar concepts into themes. FINDINGS Integration of women's experience with public breastfeeding from 27 publications covering 12 countries revealed two key themes, what women shared as 'enhancing' and 'challenging'. Challenges included four subthemes: 'drawing attention', 'sexualisation of breasts', 'awareness of others' discomfort', and 'efforts not to be seen'. Enhancing incorporated subthemes: 'supportive audience' and 'confidence'. CONCLUSION Challenges confirm an international commonality that women encounter during public breastfeeding suggesting a multilayered approach addressing community and societal behaviours is required. Insight to enhance public breastfeeding experiences offers direction to improve support.
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13
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Whiley LA, Stutterheim S, Grandy G. Breastfeeding, ‘tainted’ love, and femmephobia: containing the ‘dirty’ performances of embodied femininity. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2020.1757501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Stutterheim
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Gina Grandy
- Hill and Levene Schools of Business, University of Regina, Regina, Canada
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14
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Taylor AM, Alexander J, van Teijlingen E, Ryan KM. Commercialisation and commodification of breastfeeding: video diaries by first-time mothers. Int Breastfeed J 2020; 15:33. [PMID: 32354372 PMCID: PMC7193407 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-020-00264-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many of aspects of our lives became increasingly commercialised in post-modern society. Although breastfeeding is perhaps a late comer to this process in recent years, it too has seen significant commercialisation facilitated by social media and our obsession with celebrity culture. This paper explores how the commercialisation and commodification of breastfeeding impacts mothers' experiences of breastfeeding. METHODS In a qualitative study, five mothers in the United Kingdom recorded their real-time breastfeeding experiences in video diaries. Using a multi-modal method of analysis, incorporating both visual and audio data, a thematic approach was applied. FINDINGS Women preparing for breastfeeding are exposed to increasing commercialisation. When things do not go to plan, women are even more exposed to commercial solutions. The impact of online marketing strategies fuelled their need for paraphernalia so that their dependence on such items became important aspects of their parenting and breastfeeding experiences. CONCLUSIONS The audio-visual data demonstrated the extent to which "essential" paraphernalia was used, offering new insights into how advertising influenced mothers' need for specialist equipment and services. Observing mothers in their video diaries, provided valuable insights into their parenting styles and how this affected their breastfeeding experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Taylor
- Centre for Midwifery, Maternal & Perinatal Health, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Royal London House, Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 3LT, UK.
| | - Jo Alexander
- Centre for Midwifery, Maternal & Perinatal Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK
| | - Edwin van Teijlingen
- Centre for Midwifery, Maternal & Perinatal Health, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Royal London House, Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 3LT, UK
| | - Kath M Ryan
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Po Box 226, Reading, UK
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15
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Jackson JE, Hallam J. Against all odds-why UK mothers' breastfeeding beyond infancy are turning to their international peers for emotional and informative support. Health Care Women Int 2020; 42:739-755. [PMID: 32233966 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2020.1744147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The health benefits of breastfeeding are well documented and current recommendations are that women should breastfeed their child for two years and beyond. Despite this the UK has the lowest initiation breastfeeding rates in the world. Additionally, a considerably small percentage of women who do successfully initiate go on to breastfeed past infancy. This could in part be explained by the lack of support women receive when breastfeeding an older child. In this study we provide insight into women's experiences of healthcare interventions during the transition from breastfeeding an infant to a toddler. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 24 women with experience of breastfeeding at least one child past the age of twelve months. We used a theory driven thematic analysis to identify pertinent themes that ran through the interviews. As mothers progressed through their breastfeeding journey they faced increased social stigma. They also experienced a change in attitudes from healthcare professionals as support was replaced by judgement. This negatively impacted upon trust in healthcare professionals and the advice they offered. In response, the women turned to volunteering organizations and closed social media groups for emotional support and healthcare advice. These women experienced specific issues regarding breastfeeding in toddlerhood as opposed to infancy. They needed specialized interventions tailored for this. Social media was highlighted as a useful platform for supporting women who breastfeed beyond infancy. It allowed these women to feel part of a supportive international community and gain access to practical advice. Healthcare professionals should explore ways to engage in digital platforms to provide support to mothers' breastfeeding beyond infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Eve Jackson
- Health and Social Care Research Centre, College of Health and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Jenny Hallam
- College of Life and Natural Sciences, School of Human Sciences, University of Derby, Derby, UK
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Chan K, Whitfield KC. High confidence, yet poor knowledge of infant feeding recommendations among adults in Nova Scotia, Canada. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2020; 16:e12903. [PMID: 31777186 PMCID: PMC7083488 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.12903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In Canada, adherence to the national 'Nutrition for Healthy Term Infants' recommendations of infant and young child feeding (IYCF; 0-24 months) is suboptimal. While maternal knowledge of IYCF is commonly assessed, that of the general public has rarely been explored. Our objective was to assess the knowledge of, and confidence in answers to, Canadian IYCF recommendations among a diverse sample of adults in Nova Scotia, Canada. Between March and May 2018, a self-administered questionnaire examining IYCF knowledge, self-rated confidence, and sociodemographic information was conducted among Nova Scotians (≥19 years) in public locations. We surveyed 229 adults; 60% (n=134) were women. Mean (95% CI) age was 44 (41,46) years, 73% self-identified as white, 77% were born in Canada, and 69% were parents. Knowledge deficits were: age to terminate breastfeeding (18.3 (16.7,19.9) months; recommendation: ≥24 months), age to introduce solids (9.2 (8.2,10.2) months; recommendation: 6 months), vitamin D supplementation (10% correct), and optimal complementary foods (only 37% indicated iron-rich foods). Correct IYCF knowledge was lower among men, non-parents, young adults (19-29 years) and low-income adults (<$50,000/year). Mean self-rated confidence (out of 10) was high (7.2 (6.9,7.5)), and not different (p>0.05) between correct and incorrect responses for: best food for a newborn, age to terminate any breastfeeding, and age to start family meal foods. We found low knowledge of IYCF guidelines, yet high confidence in responses regardless of accuracy, among adults in Nova Scotia. General public knowledge deficits may contribute to an unsupportive culture around IYCF practices and low adherence to current recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Chan
- Department of Applied Human NutritionMount Saint Vincent UniversityHalifaxNova ScotiaCanada
| | - Kyly C. Whitfield
- Department of Applied Human NutritionMount Saint Vincent UniversityHalifaxNova ScotiaCanada
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Cosemans C, Nawrot TS, Janssen BG, Vriens A, Smeets K, Baeyens W, Bruckers L, Den Hond E, Loots I, Nelen V, Van Larebeke N, Schoeters G, Martens D, Plusquin M. Breastfeeding predicts blood mitochondrial DNA content in adolescents. Sci Rep 2020; 10:387. [PMID: 31941967 PMCID: PMC6962168 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57276-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrition during early childhood is linked to metabolic programming. We hypothesized that breastfeeding has long-term consequences on the energy metabolism exemplified by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). As part of the third cycle of the Flemish Environment and Health Study (FLEHSIII) cohort, 303 adolescents aged 14–15 years were included. We associated breastfeeding and blood mtDNA content 14–15 years later while adjusting for confounding variables. Compared with non-breastfed adolescents, mtDNA content was 23.1% (95%CI: 4.4–45.2; p = 0.013) higher in breastfed adolescents. Being breastfed for 1–10 weeks, 11–20 weeks, and >20 weeks, was associated with a higher mtDNA content of respectively 16.0% (95%CI: −7.1–44.9; p = 0.191), 23.5% (95%CI: 0.8–51.3; p = 0.042), and 31.5% (95%CI: 4.3–65.7; p = 0.021). Our study showed a positive association between breastfeeding and mtDNA content in adolescents which gradually increased with longer periods of breastfeeding. Higher mtDNA content may be an underlying mechanism of the beneficial effects of breastfeeding on children’s metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Cosemans
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Tim S Nawrot
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,School of Public Health, Occupational & Environmental Medicine, Leuven University, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bram G Janssen
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Annette Vriens
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Karen Smeets
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Willy Baeyens
- Department of Analytical and Environmental Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Liesbeth Bruckers
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | | | - Ilse Loots
- Faculty of Social Sciences and IMDO-Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vera Nelen
- Provincial Institute for Hygiene, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Van Larebeke
- Department of Radiotherapy and Experimental Cancerology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geo-Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Greet Schoeters
- Environmental Risk and Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Mol, Belgium
| | - Dries Martens
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Michelle Plusquin
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
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18
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Jackson JE, Hallam J. ‘I felt like I was doing something wrong’: A qualitative exploration of mothers' experiences of breastfeeding. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.12968/johv.2019.7.4.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Eve Jackson
- Research Nurse and Specialist Community Public Health Nurse (Health Visitor), Health and Social Care Research Centre, College of Health and Social Care, University of Derby
| | - Jenny Hallam
- Senior Lecturer in Psychology, College of Life and Natural Sciences, School of Human Sciences. University of Derby
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